Learning loops: unlock the power of corporate learning through continuous training 

In a constantly evolving business world, training and skills development have become critical elements for the success of any organization. L&D leaders know that keeping their teams up to date is essential, but the question is, how to achieve this?

This is where learning loops come into play, a methodology that is changing the way companies approach the upskilling of their employees, and which looks set to be the perfect ally to enhance continuous training. Keep reading to discover more!

What are learning loops or learning spirals?

Learning loops, also known as learning spirals, are based on the idea that learning should not be a single, isolated event, but rather a continuous process. Instead of simply delivering information once and expecting people to retain it forever, learning loops promote repetition and constant review over time.

Imagine that you are learning a new language. With learning loops, you wouldn’t just study vocabulary once and forget it. Instead, you would regularly return to words and phrases learned in the past, reviewing and reinforcing your knowledge. This process helps the knowledge become more firmly embedded in your long-term memory.

What are the 4 phases of learning loops?

Learning loops are made up of 4 well-defined phases. In a business context, these phases would be the following:

1. Acquisition of knowledge

In this stage, employees acquire new knowledge, skills or information relevant to their job and its responsibilities. In other words, they learn.

2. Application

After acquiring knowledge, employees are faced with real-life work situations where they have the chance to apply what they have learned. The learning by doing methodology, which consists of acquiring skills that allow you to learn to solve problems in real life, is the perfect example of what happens at this stage.

Furthermore, according to McKinsey & Company, practical learning is more highly valued by employees than theoretical learning, as it allows them to develop practical skills and solve problems effectively at work.

3. Review and reinforcement

In this stage, teams analyze information about how well their knowledge has been applied. In addition, they review and reinforce what they have learned, contributing to its long-term consolidation.

4. Continuous evaluation

Subsequently, the progress of the training is monitored and the knowledge that has been taken in is measured. This way, adjustments can be made as necessary to ensure consistently effective learning. Finally, this whole process is repeated.

What are the advantages of Learning Loops in business training?

The incorporation of learning loops in business training brings an array of significant advantages that positively impact both the development of employees and the success of the organization.

Here are the most notable:

• Greater knowledge retention: learning loops, as we have seen, focus on repetition and constant review. This practice consolidates knowledge and improves long-term knowledge retention. The result? Employees not only acquire new information, but internalize it in a more concrete way, allowing them to recall and apply what they have learned effectively in their daily lives.

• High degree of personalization and flexibility in learning: learning loops allow individuals to learn in their own way and at their own speed – an important advantage, considering that each person comes with their own pace and learning style.

• Immediate application at work: another advantage of learning loops is their focus on practical application, since employees can apply what they have learned immediately to their professional tasks. This creates a direct bridge between training and application, increasing the effectiveness of learning and, of course, boosting productivity in the workplace.

• Sustainable learning: Continuous repetition and the review of learned concepts and skills not only improves retention, but also contributes to sustainable learning over time.

• Adaptability to business needs: As we know, businesses are constantly changing and evolving. Learning loops can easily adapt to and integrate new skills or information relevant to the organization, keeping teams up to date and ready to tackle new challenges.

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What are the challenges of applying learning loops in a company?

Despite the multiple advantages that learning loops offer in business training, we cannot ignore the challenges that may arise when implementing this methodology. Recognizing these obstacles is essential to addressing them effectively and ensuring the overall success of the learning strategy. What are these challenges? Take note:

1. Low level of commitment

Keeping employees engaged in constant review and reinforcement is one of the most persistent challenges. As various work demands compete for your time and attention, it’s crucial to motivate employees to spend time reviewing and consolidating what they’ve learned.

Strategies such as gamification, rewards and recognition can be useful to maintain employee engagement throughout the learning loop implementation process.

2. Fear of change in learning

Integrating learning loops into your organizational culture may require a change in mindset. It’s normal for some employees and leaders to be reluctant to adopt this methodology if they are used to a more traditional training approach. Because of this, effective communication and awareness are essential to help all levels of the organization understand the benefits of learning loops.

3. Lack of measurement

Measuring the impact and results of learning loops can be a challenge in itself. Therefore, it is essential from the outset to establish clear metrics and define performance indicators that reflect the learning objectives and desired business results.

How can isEazy Skills help you implement learning loops to enhance your training?

isEazy Skills is a complete solution that can help you successfully implement learning loops. With our catalog of soft skills courses, you can enhance your team’s skills easily and effectively.

Our courses adapt to various needs, profiles and sectors, preparing your team to excel in key areas of the company. In addition, your collaborators can access courses at any time and from any device. Need to review content? Not a problem.

Furthermore, our 100% practical methodology allows your team to train in specific everyday professional situations, maximizing the applicability of everything they learn. Are you ready to start implementing learning loops in your learning processes?